By Aaron Wilson
For Seth Smith, his personal rugby journey began at the age of 11.
The youngest player in the Major League Rugby history, Smith is a former all-state wrestler and fullback from Fulshear High School.
Smith launched his rugby career through the Houston SaberCats’ Player Pathway as he competed for the West Houston Rugby Club, the SaberCats’ U18 group and SaberCats Academy to gain experience.
Smith is the first player to successfully graduate from the Player Pathway program for the SaberCats.
Two years ago, he was named to the USA traveling roster for players 18 and under.
Now, Smith is the latest SaberCats’ Player of the Month for his all-around contributions to a playoff-qualifying squad.
“It’s a really good feeling, especially for the second time. “All the hard work is paying off and I’m getting to perform really good.”
Smith has made strides in his overall game, including on throw-ins with his placement and strategy.
With increased opportunities, Smith is capitalizing.
“The main difference from this year to last year is a lot more playing time,” Smith said. “I’m a lot more confident in myself. I get great support from the players on our teams and coaches backing me. Throw-ins are a big emphasis for me, getting those throws down and nailing them. The coaching staff is trusting me to play more. That is attributable to my success this year and becoming a better player. Being the Player of the Month is through more confidence and the support of the coaches and my teammates.”
Smith has provided strength, mobility and skill for the defending Western Conference division champions.
The Richmond native played in his first match in a win over the Utah Warriors last year. He was 18 years old, eight months and seven days old as he made his debut for the hometown SaberCats.
“I was a three-sport athlete until my senior year of high school,” Smith said. “That’s when I concentrated just on rugby. Everything translated, the conditioning, the contact of football.”
At 5-foot-8, 240 pounds, Smith has made a strong transition to the highest level of professional rugby in North America.
His varied sports background translates to rugby quite well.
The blonde-haired Texas native is nicknamed Viking.
“They go hand in hand,” Smith said of his background in contact sports. ‘Wrestling and football very directly translates. It’s hands-on contact. It’s man on man.”
